On September 24, 2024, participants of the Study Mission Rome will visit the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) from 10 AM to 1 PM. The visit will focus on the themes of food sustainability, security, and heritage, with a special emphasis on the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) and the FAO Mountain Partnership. This visit aims to bridge theoretical knowledge and practical insights by engaging with FAO's initiatives that promote sustainable agricultural practices and preserve agricultural heritage.
The primary objective is to understand FAO's role in food sustainability and security, gaining insights into the organization's efforts to ensure global food security and promote sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the visit aims to explore the initiatives of the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), the Agrifood System and the Mountain Partnership, focusing on specific programs designed to preserve agricultural heritage and support sustainable livelihoods in mountain regions. Another key objective is to foster academic and practical engagement by facilitating discussions and workshops that enable participants to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts, thereby enhancing their understanding of global food systems.
09:00 AM - 10:00 AM: FAO Tour
Visit of the Green Room, Red Room, and Plenary Hall
10:05 AM - 10:15 AM: Welcome and Introduction
Opening remarks by a FAO representative.
Introduction to FAO’s mission and key initiatives in food sustainability and security.
10:15 AM - 10:45 AM: Presentation on GIAHS (Clelia Maria Puzzo)
Overview of the GIAHS program by a GIAHS expert.
Discussion on how GIAHS promotes sustainable agriculture and preserves cultural heritage.
Case studies of GIAHS sites and their impact on local communities.
10:45 AM - 11:15 AM: Presentation on FAO Mountain Partnership (Giorgio Grussu)
Introduction to the Mountain Partnership and its objectives.
Discussion on the challenges faced by mountain communities and the strategies for sustainable development.
Examples of successful projects and their outcomes.
11:15 AM - 11:45: Presentation of FAO Food Systems Division (Siobhan Kelly)
Introduction to the Food System Division and its objectives.
Discussion on the global challenges faced by the agricultural sector and about possible solutions
Examples of successful projects and their outcomes.
11:45 AM - 12:15 AM: Q&A Session
Interactive session with participants to address queries and encourage discussion.
Focus on the integration of sustainability practices in various agricultural contexts.
12:15 AM - 12:45 PM: Workshop on Sustainable Agricultural Practices
Interactive workshop facilitated by FAO experts.
Group activities focusing on the application of sustainable practices in agriculture.
Case study analysis and problem-solving exercises.
12:45 PM - 1:00 PM: Conclusion and Networking
Summary of key takeaways from the day.
Opportunities for networking with FAO staff and fellow participants.
These visits to FAO, with a focus on GIAHS, the Agrifood System, and the Mountain Partnership, will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of the interconnectedness of food sustainability, security, and heritage. The structured agenda, combining presentations, workshops, and interactive sessions will ensure that participants not only learn about these critical issues but also engage in meaningful discussions and practical exercises. This programme aims to lay a scientific foundation for the visit, ensuring that it is both informative and engaging, and aligns with the overarching goals of the Study Mission Rome.